Montalcino, Italy – Your complete guide to a memorable visit in the homeland of Brunello wine. Montalcino is the type of town you imagine when you think of a Tuscan hilltop town. You can see its fortress as you wind your way up the hill to reach the town, passing through Brunello vineyards along the …
Montalcino, Italy – Make the most of your visit in 2023 Read More »
Bolzano isn’t as well-known as cities like Rome, Venice, or Milan, but the city at the foot of the Dolomites is worth a visit. I’ve been visiting Bolzano, Italy since 2004 – as a cycling and hiking guide, solo traveler, on dates with my husband, and now with three children. I hope this guide …
Bolzano, Italy – 15 Best Things to Do + Insider Tips! Read More »
I’ve been visiting the Dolomites annually since 2004 in many ways: As a hiking guide As a cycling guide On cycling trips solo or with friends Hiking hut-to-hut At amateur cycling races On vacation with my husband and extended family On vacation with 1, 2, then 3 little boys Each trip includes some time on …
Visiting Alpe di Siusi, Italy – Advice from 19 Years of Visits Read More »
Visiting Isola Bella Italy – home to the quirky and interesting Palazzo Borromeo and its spectacular gardens. Hi, I’m Clair – a travel planner and wine expert based in the little town of Stresa, on Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore). I’m lucky enough to have a view of Isola Bella, one of Italy’s most spectacular islands. …
Brera, Milan – What to see, where to eat and drink, in Milan’s hip artists’ neighborhood Brera is known as the artists’ quarter of Milan, because of its art school, historic museum-gallery, and contemporary art galleries and studios. It is lively, elegant, and quirky. Strangely enough, it’s a place that many tourists miss on their …
Brera, Milan – A Quick Guide to the Artists’ Quarter Read More »
Teeny tiny Orta San Giulio is a real undiscovered gem. It is often overlooked by tourists – so overlooked in fact that its nickname is Cinderella. Lake Maggiore and Lake Como may be its (not by any means ugly) big sisters, but this charming village on an idyllic lake is well worth a visit. Where …
Orta San Giulio – A Local’s Guide to Lake Orta’s Gem Read More »
Like March, April can be a fabulous month to visit Italy. Wildflowers are blooming, the temperatures are beginning to rise, and for most of the month, there aren’t many crowds – even though April is inching its way into Italy’s high season. The light and colors of the landscape are a photographer’s dream, spring events …
Italy in April – Your 2023 Complete Guide (From Someone Who Lives Here) Read More »
Good To Know: This guide focuses on travelers visiting from the United States and Canada. If you’re traveling from another country, your recommendations may differ. If you’re packing up for your trip to Italy, you’re probably packing plenty of electronics – your smartphone, noise-canceling headphones, maybe a fitness tracker, or a laptop. If you’re traveling …
Electricity in Italy – Basics for Travelers (including which adapter to bring) Read More »
I know I didn’t ‘discover’ Dozza, but I do feel like it’s still a little bit of a secret. I heard about it from a friend who had visited with a vintner from the Emilia Romagna region. She told me seeing the colorful hilltop village was worth the white-knuckle ride (the Italian vintner was driving) …
Dozza, Italy – A Mural-Filled Gem in Emilia-Romagna Read More »
You’ve booked your flight to Italy and your hotels and now it’s time to pack! I know, it can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, by the time you finish reading this article, you’ll be ready to fare la valigia (pack your suitcase) for your trip. Why listen to my advice? I’ve been traveling here since 2003 …
Italy Packing List – Tips and Advice Based on 20 Years of Experience Read More »
